“I have no idea,” he said. “I suppose Mr. Snowford will select.”
Mr. Francis looked at him doubtfully.
“What is your opinion of the whole affair, sir?” he said.
Oliver paused a moment.
“I think it is necessary,” he began. “There would not be such a cry for worship if it was not a real need. I think too—yes, I think that on the whole the ritual is impressive. I do not see how it could be bettered....”
“Yes, Oliver?” put in his wife, questioningly.
“No—there is nothing—except ... except I hope the people will understand it.”
Mr. Francis broke in.
“My dear sir, worship involves a touch of mystery. You must remember that. It was the lack of that that made Empire Day fail in the last century. For myself, I think it is admirable. Of course much must depend on the manner in which it is presented. I see many details at present undecided—the colour of the curtains, and so forth. But the main plan is magnificent. It is simple, impressive, and, above all, it is unmistakable in its main lesson—-”
“And that you take to be—?”